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Things To Know About Qatar
Qatar, formally the State of Qatar, is a sovereign nation in Western Asia that occupies the tiny Qatar Peninsula on the Arabian Peninsula’s northeastern coast. It shares its only land boundary with Saudi Arabia to the south, while the remainder of its area is encircled by the Persian Gulf. Qatar is separated from the neighboring island nation of Bahrain by a strait in the Persian Gulf, and it has maritime boundaries with the United Arab Emirates and Iran.
Following Ottoman control, Qatar became a British protectorate in the early twentieth century until achieving independence in 1971. Qatar has been governed by the Thani family since the early nineteenth century. The State of Qatar was founded by Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani. Qatar is a hereditary monarchy ruled by Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. It is debatable whether it should be considered a constitutional or absolute monarchy. The constitution was decisively adopted in a referendum in 2003, with almost 98 percent voting in favor. Qatar has a total population of 1.8 million people in 2013: 278,000 Qataris and 1.5 million expats.
Qatar is a developed nation with a high-income economy and the world’s third-largest natural gas and oil reserves. The nation boasts the world’s highest per capita income. The United Nations classifies Qatar as a nation with extremely high human development, and it is the most advanced Arab state in terms of human development. Qatar is a major force in the Arab world, financially and via its worldwide media network, Al Jazeera Media Network, it supported many rebel organizations during the Arab Spring. Qatar has excessive global influence for its size and has been designated as a medium power. Qatar will host the FIFA World Cup in 2022, making it the first Arab nation to do so.
Climate in Qatar
When it comes to the Middle East, the question “is it always hot?” comes to mind.
No, it does not. Whatever the season, there are weather-appropriate activities to suit every requirement.
Qatar, a peninsula extending into the Arabian Gulf, has two distinct seasons. Summers might be sweltering, but winters are mild and beautiful. With infrequent rainfall, you may obtain your daily dose of vitamin D all year. Summer temperatures average 36°C and may exceed 50°C. If you’re visiting in the summer, dress comfortably in loose, breezy fabrics. Even when the weather cools, the days are warmer due to the continual sunshine, while temperatures in the evenings can drop significantly.
There are numerous ways to enjoy the country despite the scorching heat from May through October. Katara Cultural Village has an airconditioned outdoor high street, and freshly constructed football stadiums with patent cooling technology that allows people to watch athletic events at any time of year. Souq Waqif’s meandering alleys are often cooler than the open places here, with mud daubed walls resembling ancient cooling systems. Over two dozen malls across the country provide a diverse range of retail, food, and entertainment options for people of all ages and interests.
The best time to see everything Qatar has to offer is between November and April, when the warm winter boasts average temperatures of 17°C. Residents and visitors alike enjoy the great outdoors in Qatar, visiting parks and sidewalk cafés like The Pearl-Qatar, Katara Cultural Village, Souq Waqif, and Souq Al Wakrah.
Winter is prime time for camping (or glamping), desert safaris by the Inland Sea, and exploring the country’s many heritage sites and public artworks. Winter also provides an ideal setting for a variety of sports. Traditional sports like as camel racing (today with robot jockeys), horseback riding, and falconry allow visitors to experience living heritage.
Qatar conducts up to 80 athletic events and world-class competitions across a variety of sporting disciplines each year, capitalizing on its sunny winter weather with mild temperatures, including tennis, squash, and golf tournaments, as well as triathlons and marathons. Qatar is quickly emerging as a regional sporting hotspot, attracting elite athletes, leading sports clubs and federations to organize training camps with its cutting-edge sports arenas and amenities. Football, however, is by far the most popular sport in the country, as it is the first Middle Eastern country to host the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM.
This tiny resort delivers a big punch, with a slew of cool summer attractions and a wealth of outdoor pleasures during Qatar’s ideal winter.
Geography Of Qatar
The Qatar Peninsula extends 160 kilometres (100 miles) north of Saudi Arabia into the Persian Gulf. It is situated within the latitudes 24° and 27° N with the longitude 50° and 52° E. The largest part of the country consists of a low, barren plain covered with sand. In the southeast is located the Khor al Adaid (“Inland Sea”), an area with rolling sandy dunes which surrounds an inlet of the Persian Gulf. It has mild winters but very warm and humid summers.
Its highest peak is Qurayn Abu al Bawl at 103 metres (338 ft) in Jebel Dukhan in the west, a range of low limestone outcroppings running north-south from Zikrit via Umm Bab to its southern border. Jebel Dukhan’s area also includes Qatar’s main onshore oil reserves, while its natural gas fields are situated off the coast in the north-west part of the peninsula.
Administrative divisions
Since 2014, Qatar has been divided into eight municipalities (Arabic: baladiyah).
| 1 | Al Shamal | الشمال | 8,794 | 859.8 | 331.9 |
| 2 | Al Khor | الخور | 202,031 | 1,613.3 | 622.8 |
| 3 | Al-Shahaniya | الشحانية | 187,571 | 3,309.0 | 1,277.6 |
| 4 | Umm Salal | أم صلال | 90,835 | 318.4 | 122.9 |
| 5 | Al Daayen | الضعاين | 54,339 | 290.2 | 112.0 |
| 6 | Ad Dawhah (Doha) | الدوحة | 956,457 | 202.7 | 78.3 |
| 7 | Al Rayyan | الريان | 605,712 | 2,450 | 946.0 |
| 8 | Al Wakrah | الوكرة | 299,037 | 2,577.7 | 995.2 |
Demographics Of Qatar
The number of people living in Qatar varies considerably depending on the season, as the country is heavily dependent on migrant workers. In 2013, the total population of Qatar was 1.8 million, of which 278,000 were Qatari citizens (13 percent) and 1.5 million were living abroad. Non-Arab foreigners make up the vast majority of the Qatari population; Indians are the largest community with 545,000 in 2013, followed by 341,000 Nepalis, 185,000 Filipinos, 137,000 Bangladeshis, as well as 100,000 Sri Lankans and 90,000 Pakistanis and several other nationalities.
Qatar’s first demographic records date back to 1892 and were made by Ottoman governors in the region. On the basis of this census, which includes only the urban population, the total population in 1892 was 9,830.
In the 2010 census, the total population was recorded at 1,699,435 inhabitants. According to the Qatar Statistical Office, in January 2013, the country’s population was estimated at 1,903,447, of which 1,405,164 were men and 498,283 women. At the time of the first census in 1970, the population was 111,133. The population has tripled from just over 600,000 people in 2001 to 2011, so that the proportion of Qatari nationals in the total population is less than 15%. The influx of male workers has distorted the gender balance, and women now make up only a quarter of the population.
Forecasts by the Qatari Statistical Office indicate that the total population of Qatar could reach 2.8 million by 2020. The National Development Strategy of Qatar (2011-16) was estimating that the population of the country will reach 1.78 million by 2013, 1.81 million by 2014, 1.84 million by 2015 and 1.86 million by 2016 – the annual growth rate was only 2.1 percent. But the country’s population had risen to 1.83 million by the end of 2012, which represents a 7.5 percent growth rate compared to the previous year. Qatar’s total population reached a record level of 2.46 million in November 2015, an increase of 8.5 percent over the previous year and far exceeding official forecasts.
Religion In Qatar
Sunni Islam is the predominant religion in Qatar and enjoys official status. Most Qatari citizens belong to the Salafi Muslim movement of Sunni Islam, with about 20% of the population belonging to Shiite Islam. According to the 2004 census, 71.5% of the population are Sunni Muslims and about 20% Shiite Muslims, 8.5% are Christians and 10% belong to other religions. According to the Qatari Constitution, the Sharia is the main source of Qatari legislation.
In 2010, the Pew Forum estimated the religious affiliation in the country at 67.7% Muslims, 13.8% Christians, 13.8% Hindus and 3.1% Buddhists. Other religions and people not bound by religion made up the remaining 1.6%.
The Christian population consists almost exclusively of foreigners; a study from 2015 estimates that only 200 Muslims converted to Christianity. Since 2008, Christians have been allowed to build churches on land donated by the government, although foreign missionaries are officially advised against doing so. Among the active churches are the Church of Mar Thoma, Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church, Our Lady of the Rosary Roman Catholic Church, Anglican Church of the Epiphany.
There are also two Mormon stations.
Although they are home to significant Hindu and Buddhist communities, neither religious group has an official church.
Language In Qatar
Arabic is the official language in Qatar, although it is safe to say that the majority of the population does not speak it. The number of foreign workers from the Indian subcontinent and the Philippines far exceeds the number of local Qataris, especially in Doha (where foreigners make up about 90 per cent), many of whom have very limited knowledge of Arabic.
English is the lingua franca, and many Qataris speak it to communicate with foreign workers who work for them. Because Qatar was a British protectorate and because of the high level of globalisation, English is the second most widely spoken language and most residents will be able to converse in at least basic English. The Arabic dialect spoken among local Qataris is the Gulf dialect. Some foreign workers may not understand English or Arabic and rely only on their mother tongue. You may encounter foreign workers who speak different languages such as Afrikaans, Mandarin, Japanese, Hindi, Urdu, Tagalog and Thai.
Although you will do very well in Qatar if you speak only English, your hosts and any other locals you meet will be very impressed and grateful if you can recite a few basic phrases in Arabic.
Internet & Communications In Qatar
By phone
If you are calling from abroad, the Qatar country code is 974. There is no city or area code. When you call abroad from Qatar, the international dialling code is usually 0. Qatari phone numbers now have eight digits. Previously it was seven, but this was changed by the government regulator in 2010. If you come across a number with only seven digits, you can still use it by repeating the first digit. For example, a phone number that used to start with “3” will now start with “33”.
Previously, Qtel, a state-owned company, had a monopoly on telecommunications in the country. Although this changed in 2006 when the Emir authorised the establishment of new companies, competition remains weak with only two major operators:
- Ooredoo (formerly Qtel) – the prepaid starter package “Hala” costs 50 QR with 25 QR starting credit. International calls to most countries cost QR 0.66/minute. Coverage is generally better than Vodafone.
- Vodafone Qatar – Prepaid sim packs start at QR 60 with a starting credit of QR 35. International calls to most countries cost QR 0.66/minute.
By post
Qatar has a fairly efficient postal system, managed by Q-Post. There are dozens of post offices throughout Doha, as well as branches in many major cities. Sending a standard postcard to most Western countries costs 2.50 Qatari rupees. The price drops to 1 to 1.50 rupees for sending a postcard within the country itself or to most countries in the Middle East and North Africa. Sending parcels can be expensive as they are charged per kilogram and per distance. For a full list of rates and agency addresses, visit the Q-Post website.
Addresses on international letters and postcards should be formatted as:
Name of the beneficiary
House number and street name
City, postcode
Country
Biodiversity And Environment
Qatar signed the Rio Convention on Biological Diversity on 11 June 1992 and acceded to the Convention on 21 August 1996. It subsequently drew up a national biodiversity strategy and action plan, which were adopted by the Convention on 18 May 2005. A total of 142 species of mushrooms from Qatar were recorded. A recent book released by the Ministry of the Environment has documented the lizards that are known or believed to be found in Qatar, which is based on the research conducted by an internationally renowned team of scientists and other staff.
For two decades Qatar has had the highest per capita emissions in the world, at 49.1 tonnes of carbon dioxide per capita (2008). With a consumption of around 400 litres of water per capita and day, Qatar is also one of the countries with the highest per capita consumption.
In 2008, Qatar launched its National Vision 2030, which highlights environmental development as one of Qatar’s four main goals for the next two decades. In the National Vision, Qatar commits to developing sustainable alternatives to petroleum-based energy to preserve the local and global environment.
Law in qatar
The major source of Qatari laws, according to the Constitution, is Sharia law, yet in reality, Qatar’s legal system is a blend of civil law and Sharia law. Sharia law is used in family law, inheritance, and a variety of criminal offenses (including adultery, robbery and murder). In certain circumstances, Sharia-based family courts consider a woman’s testimony to be worth half that of a man’s. In 2006, codified family law was implemented. Polygyny is acceptable in Islam.
In Qatar, judicial corporal punishment is used as a form of punishment.
Flogging is used as a punishment for consuming alcohol or engaging in unlawful sexual activities.
Article 88 of Qatar’s penal code states that the penalty for adultery is 100 lashes, and a Filipino lady was sentenced to that punishment in 2006.
At least 18 persons (mainly foreign nationals) were sentenced to 40 to 100 lashes in 2010 for offenses including “illicit sexual relations” or alcohol usage.
For the same reasons, at least 21 persons (mainly foreign nationals) were sentenced to between 30 and 100 lashes in 2011, while six expatriates were sentenced to either 40 or 100 lashes in 2012.
Only Muslims who are deemed medically fit are subject to such penalties. In April 2013, a Muslim expatriate received 40 lashes for ingesting alcohol, while in June 2014, a Muslim expatriate received 40 lashes for consuming alcohol and driving under the influence.
Stoning is a legal punishment in Qatar, and apostasy and homosexuality are crimes punishable by the death sentence; however, neither crime has been carried out.
Blasphemy is punishable by up to seven years in jail, while proselytizing is punishable by ten years.
In Qatar, alcohol drinking is partially authorized; certain five-star luxury hotels are permitted to serve alcohol to non-Muslim clients.
Muslims are not permitted to use alcohol, and any discovered doing so face whipping or expulsion. Non-Muslim expatriates can get a permission to buy alcohol for personal use. The Qatar Distribution Company (a subsidiary of Qatar Airways) is authorized to import alcohol and pork; it operates the country’s sole liquor shop, which also sells pork to liquor license holders. Qatari officials have also shown a readiness to allow alcohol in “fan zones” for the FIFA World Cup in 2022.
Restaurants on the Pearl-Qatar (a man-made island near Doha) were permitted to offer alcoholic beverages until 2011. However, in December 2011, Pearl eateries were advised to stop serving alcohol. The prohibition was not explained, but speculations include promoting a more religious image ahead of a crucial election and rumors of a financial disagreement between the government and resort developers. The prohibition on alcohol was eventually repealed.
A modesty campaign was started in 2014 to inform tourists of the country’s stringent clothing rules.
Female travelers were urged not to go out in public wearing leggings, miniskirts, sleeveless dresses, or short or tight apparel. Men were advised not to wear simply shorts and singlets.
Human rights
As of 2014, some parts of the Qatari Criminal Code allow for the imposition of criminal consequences such as whipping and stoning. The UN Committee Against Torture determined that these activities violated the UN Convention Against Torture’s provisions. Qatar still has the death penalty, mostly for threats to national security such as terrorism. The death penalty is seldom used, and no state executions have occurred in Qatar since 2003. Homosexual actions are banned in Qatar and can result in death.
According to a 2011 State Department investigation, some expatriate workers from Asia and portions of Africa who freely went to Qatar as low-skilled laborers or domestic services later experienced situations resembling forced slavery. Beatings, withholding of payment, charging workers for benefits for which the employer is responsible, restrictions on freedom of movement (such as the confiscation of passports, travel documents, or exit permits), arbitrary detention, threats of legal action, and sexual assault are some of the more common labor rights violations. Many migrant workers who arrived in Qatar for work paid extravagant fees to recruiters in their home countries.
Sponsors have the unilateral right under Qatar’s sponsorship legislation to terminate employees’ residency cards, prohibit workers’ opportunity to change employers, denounce a worker as “absconded” to police authorities, and reject permission to leave the country. As a result, sponsors may limit employees’ mobility, and employees may be frightened to denounce violations or assert their rights. According to the ITUC, the visa sponsorship system facilitates forced labor by making it impossible for migrant workers to leave abusive employers or go abroad without authorization. Qatar likewise failed to uphold pay requirements for its foreign laborers. Qatari officials indicated their intention to enable the formation of an independent labor union in May 2012. Qatar commissioned multinational law firm DLA Piper to conduct an investigation of the foreign labor system in 2014. DLA Piper issued over 60 proposals for overhauling the kafala system in May 2014, including the elimination of exit visas and the implementation of a minimum salary, which Qatar has agreed to follow. Qatar has also announced the abolition of its sponsor system for international employees, which requires all foreign workers to be sponsored by local firms. Additional labor law amendments include a clause requiring all workers’ salary to be deposited directly into their bank accounts and new prohibitions on working outside during the hottest hours of the summer. Companies who fail to pay workers’ wages on time may temporarily lose their right to hire more employees, according to new draft law revealed in early 2015. Qatar’s Emir signed the amendments to the country’s sponsorship system into law in October 2015, with the new law taking effect within a year. According to Human Rights Watch, the amendments may fail to resolve several labor rights problems. According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), a minimum wage will be implemented in Qatar for all workers of all nationalities and in all industries on March 20, 2021.
In connection with the 1999 elections for a Central Municipal Council, the nation enfranchised women alongside males. These elections, the first in Qatar, were held on March 8, 1999, International Women’s Day.
Transport
With a rapidly growing population and significant economic growth over the last decade, a dependable and broad transportation network is becoming increasingly important in Qatar. So far, the government, as the principal transportation developer, has done well in meeting demand for additional transportation alternatives. One of the agencies in charge of infrastructure development, the Public Works Authority (Ashghal), underwent a comprehensive reorganization in 2008 in order to simplify and modernize the authority in readiness for large project expansions across all sectors in the near future. Ashghal collaborates with the Urban Planning and Development Authority (UPDA), which created the transportation master plan, which was implemented in March 2006 and will last through 2025.
The road network is a significant emphasis of the plan because driving is the primary form of transportation in Qatar. The multibillion-dollar Doha Expressway and the Qatar Bahrain Causeway, which would connect Qatar to Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, are two project highlights in this stretch.
To alleviate traffic congestion, mass-transit solutions such as a Doha metro, light-rail system, and expanded bus networks are being developed. Furthermore, the railway system is being extensively enlarged and may someday constitute a vital element of a GCC-wide network connecting all Arab republics in the Persian Gulf. To meet up with increased tourist numbers, the airport is also adding capacity.
Doha’s international airport is Hamad International Airport. It took over as Qatar’s primary airport in 2014, replacing the previous Doha International Airport. The airport was designated the 50th busiest in the world by passenger traffic in 2016, serving 37,283,987 passengers, a 20.2% increase over 2015.
Qatar is expanding its logistics and port infrastructure in order to engage in commerce between Europe and China or Africa. Ports like Hamad Port are quickly expanding for this reason, and investments in technology are being undertaken. The country has historically and currently been a part of the Maritime Silk Road, which runs from the Chinese coast to the south through the southern tip of India to Mombasa, then through the Red Sea via the Suez Canal to the Mediterranean, then to the Upper Adriatic region to the northern Italian hub of Trieste, which has rail connections to Central Europe, Eastern Europe, and the North Sea. Hamad Port, located south of Doha in the Umm Al Houl region, is Qatar’s principal seaport. The port’s construction began in 2010, and it became operational in December 2016. It was inaugurated in September 2017 and is scheduled to be completely operational by 2020. The port can handle up to 7.8 million tonnes of merchandise per year, with food and building materials accounting for the majority of traffic. Ras Laffan Port on the northern coast is the world’s largest LNG exporting plant.
Qatar Airways is one of the world’s major airlines, with daily flights linking more than 160 locations across six continents. Furthermore, it has received Airline of the Year in 2011, 2012, 2015, 2017, and 2019 for its great performance and employs over 46,000 people.
Economy Of Qatar
Before oil was discovered, Qatar’s economy was largely based on fishing and pearl hunting. A report drawn up in 1892 by the local governors of the Ottoman Empire states that the total income from pearl hunting in 1892 was 2 450 000 crowns. The Qatari pearl industry collapsed after the introduction of Japanese cultured pearls to the world market in the 1920s and 1930s. In 1940 oil was discovered in Qatar in the Dukhan field. The discovery changed the state’s economy. Today the country has a high standard of living for its legal citizens. Since there is no income tax, Qatar (together with Bahrain) is one of the countries with the lowest tax rates in the world. The unemployment rate was 0.1% in June 2013. Company law stipulates that Qatari nationals must hold 51% of all companies in the emirate.
From 2014 Qatar will have the highest GDP per capita in the world according to the World Atlas Factbook, and about 14% of households will be dollar millionaires. The emirate relies heavily on foreign labour to grow its economy, with 86% of the population and 94% of the workforce being migrant workers. The International Trade Union Confederation has been critical of Qatar. Qatar’s economic growth is based almost exclusively on its oil and gas industry, which started in 1940. It has been estimated that Qatar will invest more than 120 billion dollars in the energy sector over the next ten years in 2012. The country is a member state of the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), which it joined in 1961.
In 2012, Qatar retained its title as the world’s richest country (in terms of per capita income) for the third consecutive year, after overtaking Luxembourg for the first time in 2010. According to the study published by the Washington-based Institute of International Finance, Qatar’s GDP per capita in purchasing power parity (PPP) was US$ 106,000 (387,000 QR) in 2012, helping the country maintain its title as the richest nation in the world. Luxembourg came second with almost US$80,000 and Singapore third with a per capita income of around US$61,000. The study estimated Qatar’s GDP for 2012 at $182 billion and said it had reached an all-time high due to rising gas exports and high oil prices. Its population amounted to 1.8 million people in 2012. The same study published that the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) ranked 12th among the world’s richest sovereign wealth funds, with assets of $115 billion.
The Qatar Investment Authority, established in 2005, is the country’s sovereign wealth fund specialising in foreign investment. The Qatar government has channelled investments to the United States, Europe and the Asia-Pacific region, using billions of dollars in surplus from the oil and gas industry. From 2013 onwards, stocks have been estimated at $100 billion. Qatar Holding represents an international investment branch of QIA. Since 2009 Qatar Holding has received 30 to 40 billion dollars annually from the government.
Energy
In 2012, Qatar has proven oil reserves of 15 billion barrels and gas fields, representing more than 13% of the world’s resources. This makes it the world’s richest state per capita. None of its 2 million inhabitants live below the poverty line and less than 1% are unemployed.
Qatar’s economy slowed down from 1982 to 1989. OPEC quotas for crude oil production, falling oil prices and generally poor prospects on international markets reduced oil revenues. On the other hand, the Qatari government’s spending plans had to be reduced to compensate for the decline in revenues. The resulting recession for local businesses has led many companies to lay off their employees working abroad. When the economy recovered in the 1990s, the number of expatriates, particularly from Egypt and South Asia, increased again.
Oil production will not remain at the maximum level of 500,000 barrels (80,000 m³) per day for long, as oil fields are expected to be largely depleted by 2023. However, there are large reserves of natural gas off the north-eastern coast of Qatar. Qatar’s proven gas reserves are the third largest in the world and exceed 250 trillion cubic feet (7,000 km³). The economy was boosted in 1991 with the completion of Phase I of the $1.5 billion North Field gas development. Qatar Gas project launched the export of liquefied natural gas (LNG) to Japan in 1996. Other multi-billion dollar North Field gas development phases are in various stages of planning and development.
Qatar’s heavy industry projects, all located in Umm Said, include a 50,000 barrel (8,000 m³) per day refinery, a urea and ammonia fertilizer plant, a steel mill and a petrochemical plant. All these industries use gas as a fuel. Most of them are joint ventures between European and Japanese companies and the state-owned Qatar General Petroleum Corporation (QGPC). The United States is the main supplier of equipment to Qatar’s oil and gas industry, and US companies play an important role in the development of the North Field gas.
Qatar’s National Vision 2030 has made investment in renewable resources a key objective for the country for the next two decades. Qatar is pursuing a vigorous “qatarisation” programme, with all joint ventures and ministries striving to place Qatari nationals in positions of greater authority. An increasing number of foreign-trained Qatari nationals, many of whom were educated in the United States, are returning to their home countries to take up key positions previously held by expatriates. To control the influx of foreign workers, Qatar has tightened the management of its foreign labour programmes in recent years. Security is the main basis for Qatar’s strict rules and regulations on entry and immigration.
Things To Know Before Traveling To Qatar
Dress Code
Although attitudes regarding clothes are flexible in Qatar, visitors (both men and women) are encouraged to respect local culture by avoiding unnecessarily exposing apparel in public. It is typically suggested that both men and women cover their shoulders and knees.
Bargaining
This is greatly anticipated in traditional markets such as Souq Waqif.
Currency
The Qatari riyal is the country’s only currency, and it may be accessed through ATMs, which are extensively available at malls, hotels, and around Doha. When bringing local cash (Qatar Riyal-QAR), sums equal to or more than QAR 50,000 must be disclosed upon arrival. This includes jewelry, precious metals, and stones worth QAR 50,000 or more.
Disabled access
- The smartphone app Accessible Qatar gives information regarding accessibility and facilities at various public and touristic places around the country.
- Ooredoo Qatar has teamed with Wheel the World to provide accessible tourist experiences to guests with disabilities.
- In an emergency, the deaf can receive the following specialized services:
- Use the 3G camera on your computer or cell phone to dial 992;
- Send an SMS to 992 indicating your concern and the service you require (ambulance, fire rescue, police), as well as your name, address, and any other information.
- Send a message to 992@moi.gov.qa (it may take some time before you receive a response)
Drinking water
According to the World Health Organization, 99% of Qataris have access to safe drinking water. Bottled water, on the other hand, is commonly consumed in Qatar, with several local and international brands readily accessible.
Electric supply
The voltage is 240 volts and the frequency is 50 hertz. The plugs are the same as in the UK. To utilize electric appliances designed for a voltage range of 100 V – 127 V (as found in the United States, Canada, and most South American nations), a voltage converter or a combination power plug adapter/voltage converter is required.
Emergency telephone numbers
- Police, Fire, Ambulance: 999
- Traffic & Patrol Police Department: 4890666
Embassies & Consulates
Over 100 foreign embassies and consulates are located in Doha. These are open from Sunday through Thursday and closed on Friday and Saturday, as well as any Qatari and embassy-related public holidays.
Friday timings
During Friday prayers in the morning, all business and commercial activity is stopped (around 10am -12pm). Several stores are closed on Fridays, whereas malls operate in the afternoon.
Greetings
Qatari women will not shake men’s hands, and many men will not shake a lady’s hand as a sign of respect.
Healthcare facilities
In the case of an emergency, visitors can seek treatment at Hamad General Hospital’s network of hospitals and healthcare facilities.
Internet Connectivity
Qatar is the first country in the world to launch a commercial 5G network. The Hamad International Airport and most public venues, including retail malls, restaurants, and parks, provide free WiFi.
Islamic Holidays
Ramadan, the month-long fasting season, concludes with Eid Al Fitr. It lasts three days and is spent with family and friends, with considerable eating, while stores and private enterprises may reopen after one or two days.
The Hajj journey concludes with Eid Al Adha, popularly known as the “feast of sacrifice,” which lasts four days.
Language
Qatar, home to over a hundred ethnicities, is a cultural melting pot where many languages are spoken. Although Arabic is the official language of the nation, English is widely spoken in all public locations.
Official holidays
Qatar National Day is observed on December 18th. Sports Day is a national holiday observed every year on the second Tuesday of February. Furthermore, the country is closed for three days during Eid al Fitr and Eid al Adha.
Public Display of Affection
As in all Middle Eastern countries, showing overt affection and intimacy in public is frowned upon.
Ramadan
In order to show respect for people who are fasting during the Islamic month of Ramadan, visitors are urged to abstain from eating, drinking, and smoking in public areas during daylight hours. Hotels continue to provide for their visitors by building eateries that are hidden from the general public.
Religion
Islam is deeply ingrained in daily life in Qatar, a Muslim nation. Five times a day are designated for prayer: Fajr at dawn, Duhr at midday, A’asr at midafternoon, Maghrib at dusk, and ‘Esha at dusk. The precise time fluctuates every day depending on where the sun is.
Safety
According to Numbeo Crime Index 2020, the world’s biggest collection of user-contributed data on cities and nations, Qatar has been placed top in terms of safety and security.
Smoking
All public areas, including museums, sporting venues, malls, and dining establishments, are smoke-free zones. Fines for infractions range from QAR 1000 to QAR 3000.
Tipping
In Qatar, the majority of dining establishments add a service fee in the bill. However, as a sign of gratitude, a tip of 10% to 15% is welcomed. It is advised to have cash on hand for tips.
FAQs about Qatar
Is Qatar a good place to visit?
Qatar is a fantastic and amazing holiday destination. There is an unbelieveable amount of leisure, adventure, dining and cultural offerings to discover.
What is the Qatar dress code?
As an Islamic country, Qataris dress traditionally. Although there is no dress code as such, it is best to dress modestly to not upset local sensibilities. This implies no shorts for men and no mini-skirts or tank tops for women.
What is the population of Qatar?
Qatar has approximately 2.9 million people of which around 90% live in Doha, the capital. Foreign workers amount to around 88% of the population.
What is Qatar famous for?
Qatar was the first country in the world to make purple dye from shellfish. The dye was so rare it was used only for royal fabrics.
What is the best time to visit Qatar?
Definitely in the winter.November to March are ideal as the average daily temperature ranges from 20°C to 28°C, with the mornings and evenings getting pleasant at about 12°C to 14°C.
Which language is spoken in Qatar?
Arabic is the official language and English is commonly used. Among the large expatriate population, Hindi, Persian and Urdu are often heard.
Is Qatar business-friendly?
Qatar boasts one of the world’s freest economies and relaxed foreign investment rules. Foreigners are allowed to to own local businesses outright.
What are the famous Qatar cultural facts?
Qatar society is strongly influenced by Bedouin traditions. The Government promotes cultural events such as festivals, seminars, lectures, art galleries, book fairs and workshops.
What does Qatar’s flag signify?
Qatar’s flag is white and maroon with a serrated vertical divide. The nine-pointed serrated edge signifies Qatar as the ninth member of the “reconciled emirates” following the Qatari-British treaty of 1916.
How large is Qatar?
A peninsula, Qatar has 563 km of coastline, and at 103 metres, Qurain Abu al Bawl in the south the highest point.
What are some heritage sites in Qatar?
Qatar has a rich heritage, with sites such as Barzan Towers, and Al Zubarah Fort, which, along with its surrounding archeological works, has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. To discover Qatar’s heritage, click here.
How safe and easy is it to travel to Qatar?
Citizens of more than 80 countries can enter Qatar visa-free, making it the most open country in the ME and 8th in the world in terms of visa facilitation. Rated #1 in hospitality in the ME. Safest country in the world by NUMBEO (lowest on crime index), Qatar is ranked 31 out of 153 countries in the Global Peace Index. It is one of the safest countries in the world to live in.
What is Hamad International Airport?
Home to Qatar Airways, Hamad International Airport (HIA) has been described as the most architecturally significant terminal complex in the world, as well as being the most luxurious. For the sixth year in a row, it has been declared the “Best Airport in the Middle East” at the SKYTRAX World Airport Awards 2020.
Qatar is the richest country in the world as measured by GDP per capita.
How big are Qatar’s reserves of natural gas?
Qatar has the third largest natural gas reserves in the world, after Russia and Iran. Its main gas trading partners are India, China, Japan, South Korea, the USA and the UAE.
What was Qatar’s economy based on before the discovery of natural gas and oil?
Prior to the discovery of natural gas, Qatar’s economy was largely based on fishing, pearl diving, and trading.
Why is Qatar known for art and culture?
It has acquired vast amounts of modern and contemporary art, purchasing art worth hundreds of millions of dollars.
Qatar is home to a large number of museums, galleries and public artworks.
Does Qatar have wildlife?
21 species of mammals are found in Qatar. These include Arabian oryxes, desert hares, golden jackals, camels, long-eared bats, honey badgers, sand foxes, and gazelles.
What are some traditional sports in Qatar?
Falconry is a traditional sport in Qatar and is part of the country’s intangible heritage. It is possible to purchase a falcon at the dedicated falcon market, which also contains a falcon hospital. The national carrier, Qatar Airways allows travelers to carry falcons in its Economy Class cabins of its aircraft; permitting a maximum of six falcons in any one plane.
The country has a long history of camel racing, and now features robot jockeys – miniature humanoid robots connected to their trainers by remote-control walkie-talkies. Equestrian sports are also an important part of Qatar’s sporting landscape, with Al Shaqab Equestrian Centre within Education City home to some of the finest Arabian steeds.
What are the best places to visit in Qatar?
The top places include Souq Waqif, National Museum of Qatar, Katara Cultural Village, Museum of Islamic Art, Qatar National Library, Doha Corniche, City Center Mall, Oxygen Park and hundeds of other venues.
How should women dress in Qatar?
Even though there is no restriction for the tourists, it is suggested not to wear clothes that don’t cover your knees. Other than that, people are allowed to wear anything else in Qatar.
Is Qatar a safe country?
Yes. Absolutely Qatar is one of the safest countries in the Middle East. Locals and tourists can wander around safely.
Can unmarried couples stay in hotels in Qatar?
Yes, unmarried couples are permitted to stay in the same room as long as they do not belong to the Qatari Nationality.
How expensive is Qatar?
Cost of living in Qatar is, on average, 17.57% lower than in United States.
Can I wear shorts in Qatar?
Visitors should wear covered apparel and decent attire. This suggests that neither men nor women should wear shorts or polo shirts. However, there is no particular rule that forbids the wearing of shorts or specifies their size.
What is considered rude in Qatar?
As a conservative country, it is advisable not to talk about sex, religion, or politics in Qatar. Even if your opinions about these topics seem reasonable to you, you should take into consideration that they come from a different perspective (perhaps western).
Can you kiss in Qatar?
Public displays of affection with the opposite sex in Qatar can get you in to trouble- so no kissing, canoodling, fondling in public whatsoever- whether it’s with your husband or not- it can still cause offence. A peck on the cheek or holding hands with your husband is fine!
What food is Qatar known for?
Qatari cuisine is made up of traditional Arab cuisine. Machbūs, a meal consisting of rice, meat, and vegetables, is the national dish in Qatar, typically made with either lamb or chicken and is slow-cooked to give it a depth of flavour. Seafood and dates are staple food items in the country.
Can you drink alcohol in Qatar?
Drinking alcohol in Qatar is not illegal however there is a zero tolerance for drinking in public and it is a crime to be drunk in public as well. The legal drinking age in the country is also higher than in the UK with only those 21 and above able to buy alcohol from licensed hotel restaurants and bars.
Can you wear skirts in Qatar?
Women can wear skirts, leggings, and shorts in the country but avoid skimpy clothes. Furthermore, do not wear shorts or skirts too high in public places. If you feel your wears are too short, consider wearing leggings underneath to stay within the confines of the law.
What should I wear in Qatar?
Foreign visitors are expected to dress in a style that is sensitive to the Islamic culture. Conservative clothing is recommended. Men generally wear long trousers and a shirt in public. Women’s attire in public – as opposed to hotels or private clubs – should cover the shoulders, upper arms and knees.
Is WhatsApp blocked in Qatar?
Unfortunately, if you want to use WhatsApp in Qatar, you’ll need a way to unblock the service. Because of the VoIP ban, Qataris have turned to using VPNs to access restricted services like Skype. Below, we cover the best providers that allow you to beat government censorship and unblock WhatsApp in Qatar.
Is tap water safe to drink in Doha?
All of the tap and bottled water in Qatar is safe to drink, but some imported water has higher concentrations of tested parameters such as arsenic (average concentration in imported water = 0.62 parts-per-billion (ppb)); and chromium (1.04 ppb) than the locally produced tap and bottled water.
How much is a Big Mac in Doha?
The price of Combo meal in fast food restaurant (Big Mac Meal or similar) in Doha is 25 ﷼ This average is based on 10 price points. It can be considered reliable and accurate.
Can you hold hands in Qatar?
Public displays of affection should be minimal – holding hands are acceptable but kissing and hugging in public is not. Noise disruptions, bad language, making obscene gestures and showing disrespect in any way to the religion or leaders of the land are all forbidden and may land you in legal trouble.
What should I wear to the beach in Qatar?
Women are expected to cover their knees and shoulders, while the men should opt for longer shorts or trousers and should not go about shirtless. This dress code extends to the public beaches. Women should refrain from wearing revealing bikinis and swim suits.
Qatar Travel guide
Entry Requirements For Qatar
Qatar is currently the most accessible country in the Middle East, thanks to a slew of visa-easing initiatives. Visitors from all around the world may now visit Qatar visa-free…
Qatar Travel guide
How To Travel To Qatar
In the past ten years, air travel into Qatar has greatly increased. Most tourists will arrive at Hamad International Airport (DOH IATA), which is close to Doha.
Qatar Travel guide
How To Travel Around Qatar
There are three types of public transport in Qatar: buses, taxis and limousines, all owned by the state-owned company Mowasalat (Karwa)…
Qatar Travel guide
FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022
Unlike past FIFA World Cups, which have been held in June and July, the 2022 World Cup will be held in November and December to escape the extreme summer heat in Qatar.
Qatar Travel guide
Things To See in Qatar
For a relatively small peninsula in the Middle East, there is a lot to see in Qatar. The history buff will not be disappointed, with a selection of ruins, rock art and museums…
Qatar Travel guide
Things To Do in Qatar
Visitors have a wide variety of options, including museums and art galleries, marketplaces, sports, safaris in the desert beside the stunning Inland Sea or the UNESCO-listed Al Zubarah Fort.
Qatar Travel guide
Food & Drinks in Qatar
Qatar has a seemingly unlimited choice of food, many of which are excellent. If you want to try European cuisine in a refined setting, go to a hotel like the Ramada or Marriott…
Qatar Travel guide
Money & Shopping in Qatar
Although the goods are typically of lower quality than those found in malls, the souqs in the heart of Doha also have a lot to offer. Practice your negotiating abilities because prices…
Qatar Travel guide
Beaches in Qatar
Qatar is a perfect destination for amazing beach vacations, with approximately 560 kilometers of coastline and beautiful beach weather for much of the year.
Qatar Travel guide
Nightlife in Qatar
Nightlife in Qatar may not appear as exciting to tourists as it does in the Western world. In Qatar, as in other Arabian countries, there are limitations and prohibitions at night.
Qatar Travel guide
Festivals & Events in Qatar
Qatar provides a wide variety of fun festivals and events.While some events highlight the nation’s rich cultural legacy, others highlight its slick modernity and global perspective.
Qatar Travel guide
Traditions & Customs in Qatar
Qataris are Bedouin descendants who have retained a culture of gracious hospitality. Qatari society is generally conservative and largely influenced by Islamic norms.
Qatar Travel guide
Culture Of Qatar
Qatar’s culture is similar to that of other eastern Arab countries and is strongly influenced by Islam.Prominent members of the Al Thani family, which rules Qatar, are major…
Qatar Travel guide
Stay Safe & Healthy in Qatar
Qatar stands out clearly from the surrounding region, there is no war, no conflicts and hardly any crime.Driving on the roads is probably the biggest danger to your well-being.